Around 2013, one of my Japanese students introduced me to a movie she liked. It was Byousoku 5 Centimeter (5 Centimeters per Second). It was the first Makoto Shinkai film I had watched, but at that time I didn't really recognize him since I didn't care much about the technicalities. I just focused more on the story.
Now that I watched it again... (and after watching a bunch of Makoto Shinkai films) I could appreciate the movie even more. And I've rediscovered the beauty of love and hurt. Ugh!
Anyway, let's talk about it!
NOTE: The photos are screenshots from the movie.
The story is somewhat divided into three parts, though the characters and the story are connected.
Childhood friends Toono Takaki and Shinohara Akari met each other during their elementary years. They were both transfer students with Takaki transferring a bit earlier than Akari.
They had the same interests which made them closer, but before they entered middle school, Akari's parents decided to move to Tochigi which is a few hours away from Tokyo.
The distance was difficult, but it didn't affect them that much. They constantly wrote letters to each other and with the distance, visiting each other is doable. However, Takaki's family decided to move away to Kagoshima which is literally on the opposite side of Japan.
The two then decided to meet one last time before distance took them even further from each other.
I took screenshots of the snowy scenery because they're so pretty, yet melancholic in some way. Enjoy them...
Watching the same film more than 10 years later made me appreciate it more. And since I've watched other films directed by Makoto Shinkai, there were a lot of similarities that were interesting to see.
The director really likes creating things that would tug at your heartstrings. I guess I could relate to this movie more now than in the past.
The storyline is hurtful yet very beautiful. It's realistic that a lot of people especially those who have experienced or are experiencing a long-distance relationship could understand. The struggles, the pain, the wonders... and when everything ends, the journey to moving on and self-love.
This one shouts Kimi no Na wa vibes!
I got to appreciate the other character, Sumida Kanae more after rewatching this film. Her pain was undeniable, but she embraced it fully to be free and happy.
Another Kimi no Na wa vibe... hahah
VIDEO SOURCE
The soundtrack, especially this music just made it extra painful... The video above has scenes from the movie as well. Actually, it's part of the actual movie. This music video-like part is among my favorites!
The lyrics of this song say it all.
I now remember how in love I was with this film and the connection even got stronger. Ugh! Someone help my heart!!! hahahah
I should make my mom 
I recommend this movie to everyone... especially when you don't mind having your heart broken multiple times. Anyway, love is such a magnificent thing... though I don't see myself being romantically involved with anyone anymore, these types of films remind me of what it was like. It was worth it! <3
Thanks for reading and see you around! (^^,)/